by netdoctor
Britons' lazy laundry habits could lead to an increase in bedbug infestations over the winter months, new research suggests.
The latest annual Bed Bug Audit, conducted by Sheilas' Wheels, suggests that 13 per cent of Britons do not wash their bedding for more than a month at a time.
The figure rises to 16 per cent among British men, while four per cent of male respondents admitted that they had not washed their bedding in over two months.
Common reasons for not washing bedding more frequently include lack of time (29 per cent) and the desire to save money (17 per cent).
Researchers also found that 27 per cent of people have a mattress that is more than ten years old.
The findings could have important implications for bedbug infestations, as the creatures feed in the warmth of mattresses, pillows and sheets.
Spokeswoman Jacky Brown said: 'We spend so much time in our beds that it is astounding so many Brits and particularly men do not keep them clean.
'Simple measures like avoiding eating in bed, leaving the sheets exposed during the day and washing them regularly can help avoid an infestation.'
Many people do not react to bedbug bites, but others develop itchy red bumps that may require mild steroid cream.
In rare cases, a severe rash may develop and become infected, requiring treatment with antibiotics.
Britons' lazy laundry habits could lead to an increase in bedbug infestations over the winter months, new research suggests.
The latest annual Bed Bug Audit, conducted by Sheilas' Wheels, suggests that 13 per cent of Britons do not wash their bedding for more than a month at a time.
The figure rises to 16 per cent among British men, while four per cent of male respondents admitted that they had not washed their bedding in over two months.
Common reasons for not washing bedding more frequently include lack of time (29 per cent) and the desire to save money (17 per cent).
Researchers also found that 27 per cent of people have a mattress that is more than ten years old.
The findings could have important implications for bedbug infestations, as the creatures feed in the warmth of mattresses, pillows and sheets.
Spokeswoman Jacky Brown said: 'We spend so much time in our beds that it is astounding so many Brits and particularly men do not keep them clean.
'Simple measures like avoiding eating in bed, leaving the sheets exposed during the day and washing them regularly can help avoid an infestation.'
Many people do not react to bedbug bites, but others develop itchy red bumps that may require mild steroid cream.
In rare cases, a severe rash may develop and become infected, requiring treatment with antibiotics.
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